In celebration of the November release of the latest editions in its Australia guidebook range, global travel authority Lonely Planet has asked three of its uniquely qualified author-experts to select the top coolest neighbourhoods in Australia to visit right now.
Adelaide’s West End, South Australia
“Previously maligned for its salacious past, Adelaide's West End is no longer a no-go zone. Wander down pedestrian friendly laneways home to award-winning bars and restaurants such as Pink Moon Saloon, or sample freshly farmed Coffin Bay oysters at Adelaide Central Market. Visit the new futuristic SAMHRI building and marvel at its dramatic juxtaposition to the colonial beauty of the precinct’s other architectural gems such as Adelaide's GPO. The West End has emerged as a traveller triple threat offering visitors brilliant experiences morning, noon and night.”
Chris Zeiher authored the South Australia chapter in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2017, and the Adelaide chapter of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2014. APAC Media Spokesperson and Sales & Marketing Director for Lonely Planet, follow Chris’ tweets @chriszeiher
Newstead, Brisbane, Queensland
“Once a jumble of gasworks, timber yards and woolstores, Newstead is now a high-density powerhouse of Brisbane cool. Head in early to score posh, baked doughnuts at Nodo Donuts, or tuck into the cult-status cabbage pancakes at locavore café and providore Sourced Grocer. If you’re thirsty, slurp local craft beers at bus depot-turned microbrewery Newstead Brewing Co, then rock the night away to hotlist bands in former wartime hangar Triffid.”
Cristian Bonetto is the author of the first edition of Lonely Planet’s Pocket Brisbane and the Gold Coast, to be published November 2017. Follow his tweets @CristianBonetto
Maylands, Perth, Western Australia
“This once-shady suburb has evolved into a buzzing community hub with a gritty, yet artisanal edge. Hit eclectic café-bar Henry on Eighth for live art performances, follow the sounds of a jug band to the vintage train seat booths at Swallow Bar, pause for handmade sourdough at The Woodfired Baker, and trace a yellow brick road to the quirky curios spilling from Vintage Emporium. Bonus points if you find Rossonero pizzeria, hidden on Lyric Lane.”
Fleur Bainger is a Lonely Planet Local based in Perth. Follow her on Instagram @fleurbainger